Hair volumizing device

ABSTRACT

A hair volumizing device for creating the appearance of added volume to the user&#39;s hair that is worn under a section of the hair so it cannot be seen by others. The hair volumizing device of the present invention provides a style “bump” in the hair that is desired by many. The hair volumizing device comprises an elongated member having a center section, a first end and a second end. In a preferred embodiment, the elongated member is generally arcuately-shaped to conform to the shape of the user&#39;s head. One or more lengths of a textured material or other hair engaging mechanism keeps the hair in place over the device so that it will not be seen. One or more openings in the center section reduces weight, improves appearance and lowers the cost of the device. A hair extension component can be attached to the device for increased hair length.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application claims the benefit of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/888,205 filed Jul. 30, 2007.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

A. Field of the Invention

The field of the present invention relates generally to hair styling devices configured to be worn in the user's hair in order to affect the appearance of the hair. More particularly, the present invention relates to such hair styling devices which give the user's hair the appearance of greater volume. Even more particularly, the present invention relates to hair volumizing devices that are adapted to be worn in the hair without being seen.

B. Background

A wide variety of devices are available for styling hair to obtain a certain type of look and enhance the beauty of the hair and, as a result, the person. Many of the available devices are utilized by the person or by his or her hair stylist, including curling irons, rollers, blow dryers and hair clamps, to impart a particular style to the hair. Unfortunately, many of the most desirable hair styling effects are not easy for most men or women to accomplish themselves, thereby requiring a visit to a hair stylist to achieve the desired look. Even if the person is able to accomplish the hair style him or herself, many of the hair styles require a relatively significant amount of time and effort to achieve. Although much effort, and in many circumstances money, may be put into obtaining the desired hair style, the styling work is usually only temporary, lasting until the next hair wash or exposure to wind, rain or other weather elements. As a result, many people only have the hair style they desire on a relatively infrequent basis.

To counter the difficulty and generally temporary nature of many hair styles, a number of hair clips and other styling tools are available. A number of these hair clips have hair engaging members that are configured to grasp a portion of the hair to effect a particular look to the hair. Examples of these types of clips are set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 5,441,061 to Jordan, et al., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,988,184 to Shu, 5,881,741 to Chen, U.S. Pat. No. 5,842,485 to Potut and U.S. Pat. No. 6,619,296 to Potut. A common feature of these hair clips and others like them is that they grab onto a portion of the person's hair and are, for the most part, worn on the outside of the hair, meaning that they are at least partially visible to others. In fact, many of these types of hair clips are intended to be seen. As a result, some of the clips utilize decorative features, such as ribbons, flower-shaped elements and the like, to substantially cover the hair clip as it is worn in the user's hair. Some of these hair clips and other styling tools, as an example U.S. Pat. No. 5,036,870 to Edmark, are utilized to effectuate a particular hair style or effect to the user's hair (i.e., an inverted hair tail).

A number of hair styling combs or picks are available to manipulate a person's hair to achieve a desired look. An example of one such hair pick is set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 7,231,925 to Wall. This patent discloses a base member having a plurality of teeth extending therefrom. The base member is configured to allow the user to flex the pick in a manner that orients the teeth in either a converging closed position or a diverging open position for pulling the pick through the hair to effect a desired combing, untangling, holding and spraying of the hair. Another example of such a hair comb or pick is set forth in U.S. Pat. No. 4,917,129 to Olson, which describes a device for teasing the hair to provide more volume with less tangling and knotting. This device has a handle from which a plurality of teeth extend from at different lengths (i.e., short, medium and long tooth lengths). As with many other such hair combs or picks, these devices are intended to be used to manipulate the hair during the styling process and are not intended to be left in the hair.

One desirable hair treatment or style is to manipulate the hair so as to appear to increase the volume of a person's hair. In particular, many women desire to have hair that is full of volume so as to achieve a look that is commonly referred to as the “big hair” appearance. Generally, achieving this look requires the hair to be teased or bumped, as may be accomplished by the device of Olson above, and then finished to hold in place. Most women have much difficulty in obtaining this look on their own and, as a result, must go to a hair stylist to obtain the desired volumizing of their hair. Several known hair styling devices or clips are intended for providing the appearance of increased volume in the hair. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,778,905 to Adam discloses a volume hairpin that comprises a support member which protrudes from the side of one of the legs of the hairpin. Hair flows between the upper and lower legs of the hairpin and then over the support member, which raises the hair to give it the appearance of increased volume. As with other hairpins, a portion of this hairpin is outside of the hair and, as a result, generally visible. U.S. Pat. No. 7,004,179 to Lunde describes a hair styling article for providing increased volume to a switch of hair. This article comprises a base and a plurality of outwardly extending, arcuate-shaped members that hold the switch of hair in place in a flared-out fashion in a ponytail configuration. U.S. Pat. No. 6,209,549 to Lunde describes a hair root volumizing clip having a pair of arms that are each connected to tabs that are squeezed together to open the hair clip. Hook fibers are applied to the interior faces of the arms to apply tension to the hair. The hair clip is only intended to be in the person's hair while the stylist is styling the hair in a manner to provide the appearance of increased volume. The clip is removed once the styling activity is completed.

Although there are numerous hair styling devices available, what is needed is an improved hair styling device that is specially configured to be worn in the hair to provide the appearance of increased volume. The preferred hair volumizing device should be configured to be substantially or completely hidden in the person's hair so that the device is not visible to others while providing the desired volumizing effect. Preferably, the hair volumizing device will be easy for a person to correctly place in their own hair so that they may quickly and without having to go to a hair stylist obtain the desired increase in hair volume. The preferred hair volumizing device should be configured and made out of materials such that the device is relatively inexpensive to manufacture.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The improved hair volumizing device of the present invention solves the problems and provides the benefits identified above. That is to say, the present invention discloses a hair volumizing device which is worn in the hair and useful for providing the appearance of increased volume in the user's hair. The hair volumizing device of the present invention is an easy to use device that can be placed by the user in her own hair and then worn under the hair to provide the appearance of increased volume without the device being seen by others. The present hair volumizing device is adapted to engage a portion of the user's hair just above the scalp and raise the hair up to give the user the appearance of increased hair volume without the need to see a hairstylist or tease/bump the hair themselves. The preferred hair volumizing device of the present invention is made out of components and materials that can provide a relatively inexpensive to manufacture device.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the hair volumizing device comprises a plurality of elongated members, each having a first end and a second end, that are disposed generally in a side-by-side relation and a flexing mechanism disposed generally at the first ends of the elongated members. The elongated members comprise at least a forward member and a rearward member. The flexing mechanism, which can comprise a spring disposed between the first ends of the elongated members, is configured to flex the elongated members from a closed position to an open position. In the closed position at least the second ends, but preferably the entire length, of adjoining members are in abutting relation. In the open position the adjoining members are in spaced apart relation. The flexing mechanism is configured to bias the elongated members in the closed position, requiring the user to operate the flexing mechanism to place the device in the open position. In the preferred configuration of this embodiment, the user squeezes the device at or near the first ends of the elongated members. In another configuration of this embodiment, the elongated members are configured in pairs of members, each having a first and second elongated member, and the flexing mechanism biases the first and second elongated members together in the closed position and is operated to spread them apart in the open position. In either configuration, the hair volumizing device is sized and configured to be received in a section of hair of the user and worn by the user such that the hair volumizing device is substantially covered by the section of hair so as to appear to add volume to the section of hair without the hair volumizing device being seen.

The elongated members can be molded out of plastic in a fixed arcuate-shaped configuration or they can be made out of a bendable material that allows the user to bend the elongated members to the desired arcuate shape. The hair volumizing device can include a hair engaging mechanism, such as a textured material or the like, at an outer face of the forward member to help keep the hair in place over the device. The hair volumizing device can also include a gripping mechanism disposed on at least one of an inward face of an elongated member, the side facing the cooperatively opposing member, that is configured to more securely grip the hair so as to better prevent the device from unintentionally dislodging from the hair. The hair volumizing device can also be configured with a hair extension component comprising hair that is glued or otherwise attached to the one or more of the elongated members to increase the quantity of the user's hair.

In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, the hair volumizing device comprises a single elongated member having a center section, a first end and a second end, with the elongated member being sized and configured to be received in a section of hair of the user and worn by the user such that the hair volumizing device is substantially covered by the section of hair so as to appear to add volume to the section of hair without the hair volumizing device being seen. Preferably, the elongated member is generally tapered toward the ends such that the first and second ends are substantially planar at and near the edges thereof. The center section can comprise one or more openings therein to improve the look, reduce the weight and lower the manufacturing cost of the hair volumizing device. In one configuration, the elongated member is molded out of plastic, such as by an injection molded process, in a fixed arcuate-shaped that generally matches or conforms to the curved shape of a user's head. In another configuration, the elongated member is made out of a bendable material that allows the user to bend the elongated member into an arcuate shape that generally matches or conforms to the curvature of their head. With either configuration, the hair volumizing device of this embodiment includes one or more hair engaging mechanisms, such as Velcro or other textured material, on one or more sides or outer surfaces of the elongated member to help keep the hair in place over the hair volumizing device. If desired, the hair volumizing device of this embodiment can also be configured with a hair extension component comprising hair that is glued or otherwise attached to the elongated member to increase the quantity of the user's hair.

Accordingly, the primary objective of the present invention is to provide a hair volumizing device that provides the advantages discussed above and overcomes the disadvantages and limitations associated with presently available hair volumizing devices.

It is also an important object of the present invention to provide a hair volumizing device that is configured to be worn in the user's hair to create the appearance of increased hair volume without the device being visible.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a hair volumizing device that is relatively easy for the person to use so she may place the device in her hair herself to create the appearance of greater hair volume.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a hair volumizing device comprising a single elongated member that is formed into or formable into a curvilinear shape to generally match the curvature of the user's head and has one or more hair engaging mechanisms thereon to engage and be hidden in a section of the user's hair to create the appearance of increased hair volume without the device being generally visible.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide the hair volumizing device of the proceeding paragraph that also comprises a taper configuration towards one or more ends, preferably both ends, of the elongated member to better hide the device in the section of the user's hair.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a hair volumizing device that can incorporate a hair extension component to increase the quantity of the user's hair.

It is also an object of the present invention to provide a hair volumizing device that can be made of components and materials which result in a relatively inexpensive device for creating the appearance of increased volume in the user's hair.

The above and other objectives of the present invention will be explained in greater detail by reference to the attached figures and the description of the preferred embodiment which follows. As set forth herein, the present invention resides in the novel features of form, construction, mode of operation and combination of processes presently described and understood by the claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings which illustrate the preferred embodiments and the best modes presently contemplated for carrying out the present invention:

FIG. 1 is a front view of a woman utilizing a hair volumizing device, shown in hidden lines, configured according to one embodiment of the present invention to create the appearance of increased hair volume;

FIG. 2 is a top side perspective view of a hair volumizing device configured according to one embodiment of the present invention shown in its open position;

FIG. 3 a top right end perspective view of the hair volumizing device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a top view of the hair volumizing device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a top view of the hair volumizing device of FIG. 2 shown in its closed position;

FIG. 6 is an end view of the left end of the hair volumizing device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a front side view of the hair volumizing device of FIG. 2;

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the hair volumizing device of the present invention shown in its closed position;

FIG. 9 is a top perspective view of another alternative embodiment of the hair volumizing device of the present invention shown in its closed position;

FIG. 10 is a top view of an alternative embodiment of the hair volumizing device of the present invention having a hair extension component included therewith;

FIG. 11 is a front view of a woman utilizing a hair volumizing device, shown in hidden lines, configured according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention to create the appearance of increased hair volume;

FIG. 12 is a front view of the hair volumizing device of FIG. 11 shown with a hair engaging mechanism on the top side thereof;

FIG. 13 is a front view of the hair volumizing device of FIG. 12 shown with hair engaging mechanisms on the top and front sides thereof;

FIG. 14 is a front view of the hair volumizing device of the present invention shown without the hair engaging mechanisms;

FIG. 15 is a front perspective view of the hair volumizing device of FIG. 14; and

FIG. 16 is a top view of the hair volumizing device of FIG. 14.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

With reference to the figures where like elements have been given like numerical designations to facilitate the reader's understanding of the present invention, the preferred embodiments of the present invention are set forth below. The enclosed figures and drawings are merely illustrative of a preferred embodiment and represent several different ways of configuring the present invention. Although specific components, materials, configurations and uses are illustrated, it should be understood that a number of variations to the components and to the configuration of those components described herein and in the accompanying figures can be made without changing the scope and function of the invention set forth herein. For instance, although the figures and description provided herein are primarily directed to a hair volumizing device having generally rectangular or round members, those skilled in the art will readily understand that this is shown merely for purposes of simplifying the present disclosure and that the present invention is not so limited.

A hair volumizing device that is manufactured out of the components and configured pursuant to the preferred embodiments of the present invention is shown generally as 10 in the various figures. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 11, hair volumizing device 10 is preferably and beneficially worn in the hair 12 of user 14 to create the appearance of increased hair volume. In the preferred configuration and use of hair volumizing device 10, it is hidden in the hair 12 so that others cannot readily see that user 12 is utilizing hair volumizing device 10 to increase the volume of her hair 12. In FIGS. 1 and 11, hair volumizing device 10 is shown in use in a section of the user's hair, shown generally as 16, at or near the top of her head to provide the appearance of increased hair volume at that location. As discussed below, an embodiment of hair volumizing device 10 can be utilized at or near the side of her head to provide the appearance of increases hair volume at that location. In the preferred use of the present invention, hair volumizing device 10 is received in the section 16 of hair 12 such that it is substantially covered by the section 16 of hair 12 so that it is unseen by others, who will only notice that the user 14 appears to have increased volume at that location. As set forth above, typically the appearance of increased volume of hair 12 requires preparation by the user or the cost and effort to have a stylist prepare the hair 12.

In the embodiment of hair volumizing device 10 of the present invention shown in FIGS. 1 through 10, hair volumizing device 10 comprises a plurality of elongated members 18 that are disposed in a generally side-by-side relation, as shown in FIGS. 2 through 10, and a flexing mechanism 20 configured to flex the elongated members 18 from their normally closed position, shown as 22 in FIG. 5, to their open position, shown as 24 in FIGS. 2 through 4. Each of the elongated members 18 have a first end 26, which is generally proximal to where the user 14 holds and operates device 10, and a second end 28 that is at the distal end of elongated members 18. The plurality of elongated members 18 comprises at least a forward member 30 that is generally in the direction of the user's face when used at the top of the head or generally in the direction of the ground when used on the side of the head. Rearward member 32 is generally facing in the direction opposite the forward member 30, as best shown in FIGS. 4 and 5. As explained in more detail below, flexing mechanism 20 is preferably disposed at or near the first end 26 of the elongated members 18.

For use to create the appearance of increased volume in the hair 12 of user 14, the elongated members 18 should be shaped and of sufficient size, length and width, to impart the desired effect on the hair 12. In one embodiment, such as that shown in FIGS. 2 through 7, elongated members 18 are generally rectangular shaped having a height of approximately three-fourths of an inch to two inches and a width of one-eighth to one-fourth of an inch and approximately four to six inches in length. In another embodiment, such as that shown in FIG. 8, elongated members 18 are generally circular shaped having a diameter of approximately three-fourths of an inch to two inches and a length of four to six inches. Various other cross-sectional shapes, including square, oval, triangular and the like, can also be utilized for the elongated members 18. While smaller dimensions can be used, they are not believed to impart the desired “lift” to the hair 12 to give it the desired appearance of increased volume. Larger diameters of elongated members 18 may be somewhat difficult to conceal in the hair 12. If desired, the various elongated members 18 can have different configurations and sizes. For instance, the inner elongated members (i.e., those between the forward 30 and rearward members 32) can have a larger diameter or other dimension to provide a more graduated bump for the hair 12. Likewise, different elongated members 18 may have different cross-sectional shapes.

Elongated members 18 can be manufactured out of a variety of different materials and configurations. In a preferred embodiment, elongated members 18 are made out of stiff molded plastic and in a generally arcuate-shaped configuration, as shown in FIGS. 2 through 7. As well known in the art, molded plastic allows the elongated members to be relatively easily made into different shapes, colors and configurations. Although other materials can be used, it is preferred that the materials be generally lightweight, durable and corrosion resistant. The use of an arcuate-shaped configuration allows the elongated members 18 to generally correspond to the shape of the typical user's head so that the hair volumizing device 10 fits more comfortably on the head and is easier to conceal within the user's hair 12. Alternatively, elongated members 18 can be made out of a bendable material that allows the user 14 to bend the elongated members 18 to more closely correspond to the shape of her head and, therefore, be better concealed in her hair 12. Examples of flexible curlers and like devices which are utilized in hair styling are well known in the art. Elongated members 18 can be provided with openings 34 to reduce their weight and add aesthetics, such as shown in FIGS. 2 through 7, or they can be solid as shown in FIG. 8.

In a preferred configuration of this embodiment, shown in FIGS. 2 through 7, hair volumizing device 10 comprises one or more, preferably a plurality of, pairs of members (shown as 36) that each comprise a first elongated member 38 and a second elongated member 40. As best shown in FIG. 5, first 38 and second 40 elongated members 18 are in a cooperative arrangement such that, in the closed position 22, at least the second ends 28, but preferably the entire length, thereof are generally in abutting relation to engage a portion of the section of hair 16 therebetween so that hair volumizing device 10 will be secured in hair 12. Although it may not be necessary for the entire length of two adjacent elongated members 18 to be in abutting relation, the abutting contact must be adequate to sufficiently engage the section of hair 16 so that hair volumizing device 10 is not easily dislodged (unintentionally) from hair 12. As shown, the various separate pairs of members 36 can be spaced apart from each other to provide a wider scope for the volumizing effect. Alternatively, the flexing mechanism can be configured such that the various pairs of members 36 are also in abutting relation when hair volumizing device 10 is in the closed position. As best shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, adjoining pairs of members 36 are joined by one or more pair connecting pins 37 or like device that pivotally connects the pairs 36 together (i.e., the first end of second elongated member 40 of a forward pair pivotally connected to the first end of the first elongated member 38 of the rearwardly adjacent pair) and a spring wire 41 that pulls the pairs 36 generally together.

In another configuration of this embodiment, shown in FIG. 8, hair volumizing device 10 comprises a plurality of single elongated members 18 with the adjacent elongated members 18 in abutting relation when device 10 is in the closed position 22. For either of the embodiments, the flexing mechanism 20 is configured to move the second ends 28 of first 38 and second 40 elongated members to a spaced apart relation, the open position 24 (as best shown in FIGS. 2 through 4), so the user 14 may more easily place hair volumizing device 10 in the hair 12 to obtain the desired volumizing effect and remove it therefrom when the effect is no longer desired.

Flexing mechanism 20 is configured to bias the pairs of members 36 (FIG. 2) or the elongated members 18 (FIG. 8) together in the closed position 22 such that the user must operate flexing mechanism 20 to move the pairs of members 36 or elongated members 18 to the open position 24. In this manner, the default closed position 22 will secure hair volumizing device 10 in the hair 12 of the user 14. Flexing mechanism 20 should be configured to be easy to operate so the user 14 can put it in her hair 12 without much difficulty. In a preferred configuration, flexing mechanism 20 can be moved to its open position with only one hand of the user 14 so that the user's other hand may be free to manipulate the hair 12 as necessary or desired to place hair volumizing device 10 therein. In one embodiment, flexing mechanism 20 may comprise a handle type of configuration such as those utilized with many of the prior art hair clips known in the art (i.e., as described above). In a preferred configuration, flexing mechanism 20 comprises a spring 42 disposed between each of the elongated members 18 with a spring support pin 43 supporting spring 42 and connecting the adjacent elongated members, as best shown in FIGS. 4 through 6. The placement and/or configuration of springs 42 should be selected such that the user 14 can grasp the first ends 26 of the forward member 30 and rearward member 32 between her fingers and squeeze so as to move hair volumizing device 10 to its open position 24. Preferably, squeezing the first ends 26 of the forward 30 and rearward 32 members will somewhat uniformly open the elongated members 18 to place device 10 in the open position 24. Releasing the flexing mechanism 20 biases elongated members 18, or pairs of members 36, back to the closed position 22.

To help keep the section of hair 16 over the hair volumizing device 10, the present invention can also include a hair engaging mechanism 44 at one or more locations on the device 10. As shown in the embodiment of FIG. 8, but applicable to other embodiments, hair engaging mechanism 44 can comprise a length of textured material 46 positioned generally at the outer face 48 of the forward member 30. The textured material 46 should be configured to essentially grab onto the a portion of the hair 12 so that the hair 12 can be held in place above the hair volumizing device 10 to help keep it hidden from view. Typically, it will only be necessary to have the hair engaging mechanism 44 at or near the forward member 30 of the device 10, as the hair 12 will generally stay in place (i.e., lay over) above the device 10 elsewhere. The textured material 46 can entirely cover the outer face 48 of forward member 30 or, as shown in the figures, only partially cover the outer face 48 thereof. The textured material 46 can be half of a hook and loop material, commonly known as Velcro®, foam or other various materials, including coatings and the like, which will effectively grab the hair 12 so that wind or activity by the user 14 will not cause the hair to move away from the forward side of hair volumizing device 10 and expose it to view, thereby reducing one of the main advantages of the present invention.

Hair volumizing device 10 can also comprise a gripping mechanism 50 to more securely grab the portion of the section of hair 16 that is between the elongated members 18. A variety of configurations for gripping mechanism 50 are well known in the art. In one configuration, shown in FIGS. 2 through 6, gripping mechanism 50 can comprise a plurality of small, outwardly projecting protrusions (e.g., small bumps) disposed on an inward face 54, that being the sides of elongated members 18 facing an abutting elongated member 18, of at least one of the first elongated member 38 or second elongated member 40 that make up the pairs of members 36. In the configuration of FIG. 8, the outwardly projecting protrusions 52 are in the form of elongated bars. Various other types of configurations can also be utilized. If desired, the inward face 54 of both first 38 and second 40 elongated members can comprise the gripping mechanism 50 to further improve the hair gripping ability of hair volumizing device 10. The protrusions 52 on the opposing inward faces 54 of first 38 and second 40 elongated members can be spaced apart and configured to be somewhat interlocking so that the portion of hair 12 therebetween is even more tightly held to better secure device 10 in hair 12 and to keep device 10 hidden by hair 12.

As shown in FIG. 10, the device 10 of the present invention can also include a hair extension component 56 that, as well known in the art, can be used to increase the thickness and/or length of the user's hair. In one configuration, hair extension component 56 comprises a plurality of hairs 58, generally much thicker than that shown, that are fixedly connected to one or more elongated members 18. The plurality of hairs 58 can be glued or otherwise secured to elongated members 18 using materials that are well known and readily available in the art. In addition to providing the hair volumizing effect desired by many users, device 10 provides an improved hair engaging device for more securely placing a hair extension in the user's hair than the currently available devices for securing hair extensions.

To use the embodiment shown in the figures, the user 14 moves the device 10 from the biased closed position 22 to the open position 24 by grasping the first ends 26 of the elongated members 18 with one hand, generally at the forward 30 and rearward 32 members, and squeezing to cause the flexing mechanism 20 to space apart elongated members 18. Other types of flexing mechanisms 20, such as those having a “handle” component, will require different operation. With device 10 in the open position 24 and with the section of hair 16 where the device 10 is desired raised by the user 14 with her other hand, the user 14 directs the device 10 into her hair 12 at the location of the section of hair 16 where she desires to have increased volume. With the hair volumizing device 10 in place, the user 14 releases the grip on the first ends 26, causing the flexing mechanism 20 to bias the elongated members 18 or pairs of members 36 together to place the device 10 in its closed position 22 and secure device 10 in hair 12. Once in place, the user 14 releases the section of hair 16 in the other hand to allow it to fall on top of the device 10, thereby covering it and hiding it from view. If utilized, hair engaging mechanism 44 will help hold the hair 12 in place, particularly at the forward side of the device 10, and gripping mechanism 50 will help secure device 10 in the hair 12. If the hair volumizing device 10 comprises flexible elongated members 18, as opposed to fixed arcuate-shaped elongated members 18 (i.e., molded plastic), then the user 14 will first bend the elongated members 18 to the desired bend for the shape of her head and/or the location (i.e., top or side) where she desires to place the device 10 to achieve the appearance of increased volume. If the hair extension component 56 is utilized with device 10, the user places device 10 in her hair in a similar manner as described above while taking into consideration the additional hair provided by device 10.

The preferred embodiment of the present invention, shown in FIGS. 11 through 16, comprises a single elongated member 18 having a first end 26, a second end 28 and a center section 60 disposed therebetween. The elongated member 18 has a top side 62, bottom side 64, forward facing front side 66 and a rearward facing back side (not specifically shown) opposite that of front side 66. As discussed above, elongated member 18 can be manufactured out of a variety of different materials and configurations. In a preferred embodiment, elongated member 18 is made out of stiff molded plastic and in a generally arcuate-shaped configuration, as best shown in FIGS. 12 through 14, with curvilinear shaped top side 62 and bottom side 64. As well known in the art, molded plastic allows elongated member 18 to be relatively easily (i.e., by an injection molded process) made into different shapes, colors and configurations. Although other materials can be used, it is preferred that the materials be generally lightweight, durable and corrosion resistant. The use of the arcuate-shaped configuration allows the elongated member 18 to generally correspond to the shape of the typical user's head so that the hair volumizing device 10 fits more comfortably on the head and is easier to conceal within the user's hair 12. In an alternative embodiment, the elongated member 18 can be made out of a bendable material or comprises a bendable component (i.e., a wire embedded in elongated member 18) that allows the user 14 to bend, as desired, elongated member 18 so as to correspond to the shape of her head and, therefore, be better concealed in her hair 12. If desired, the center section 60 of elongated member 18 can also be provided with one or more openings 34 to reduce its weight, lower the manufacturing/material costs and add aesthetics, such as shown in FIGS. 12 through 15. The size, shape and number of openings 34 in elongated member 18 can be varied as desired by the manufacturer. In addition, openings 34 can be configured to be completely pass through elongated member 18 or only partially through (i.e., not a complete hole) elongated member 18. Alternatively, elongated member 18 can be solid.

Examples of flexible curlers and like devices which are utilized in hair styling are well known in the art. Although some of the components of such devices can be utilized in the hair volumizing device 10, the present invention is much different than these prior art devices in its configuration, purpose and use. For instance, hair curling devices are utilized in wet hair to impart a curl to the user's hair 12 while it is drying, whereas hair volumizing device 10 is utilized in a section 16 of dry hair 12 to give it the “bump” that is associated with increased hair volume. The hair volumizing device 10 of the present invention does not curl hair and the hair curling devices do not provide the bump. In addition, prior art hair curling devices are intended to be left in the hair 12 only long enough to provide a curl when the hair 12 is dry and they do not have the concern with regard to not being seen by others. In contrast, the hair volumizing device 10 is placed in a section 16 of dry hair 12 to give it the bump and then left in the hair 12 for as long as the user 14 wants the bump effect without the device 10 being seen by others.

To create the appearance of increased volume in the hair 12 of user 14, the elongated member 18 is shaped and of sufficient size, length and width, to impart the desired bump effect on hair 12. In the embodiments shown in FIGS. 11 through 16, elongated member 18 has a height of approximately three-eighths of an inch to one and one-half inches, a width of one-fourth to three-fourths of an inch and a length of approximately one and three fourths to six inches. The cross section of elongated members can be generally rectangular, rectangular with curved sides, circular or various other shapes, including square, oval, triangular and the like, can also be utilized for the elongated member 18. While smaller dimensions can be used, they are not believed to impart the desired “lift” to the hair 12 to give it the desired appearance of increased volume. Larger diameters of elongated member 18 may be somewhat difficult to conceal in the hair 12.

In the preferred embodiment, the first 26 and second 28 ends are generally tapered towards the outer edges, shown as first edge 68 and second edge 70 thereof, to make it easier for user 14 to hide hair volumizing device 10 in the section 16 of her hair 12. Preferably, the outer edges 68 and 70 of elongated member 18 are substantially planar at or near the edges 68 and 70 thereof. In one configuration, this results in a duck-bill like shape at the ends 26/28 of elongated member 18. In the preferred configuration, both ends 26 and 28 are configured with the same shape. In an alternative configuration, the two ends 26 and 28 can be configured different from each other.

To maintain the section 16 of hair 12 over the hair volumizing device 10, the present invention also includes a hair engaging mechanism 44 at one or more locations on the elongated member 18. As shown in FIG. 12, hair engaging mechanism 44 can comprise one or more lengths of textured material 46 placed generally on the top side 62 of elongated member 18. If desired, one or more lengths of textured material 46 can also or alternatively to be placed on front side 66, as shown in FIG. 13, and/or the back side of elongated member 18. The textured material 46 should be configured to essentially grab onto a portion of the hair 12 so that the hair 12 can be held in place above hair volumizing device 10 to help keep it in hair 12 and hidden from view. Typically, it will only be necessary to have hair engaging mechanism 44 along a portion of elongated member 18 as the hair 12 will generally stay in place (i.e., lay over) above the device 10 elsewhere. If desired, the textured material 46 can entirely cover the sides of elongated member 18. The textured material 46 can be half of a hook and loop material, commonly known as Velcro®, attached to elongated member or foam or other various materials, including coatings and the like, which will effectively grab the hair 12 so that wind or activity by the user 14 will not cause the hair to move away from the hair volumizing device 10 and expose it to view, thereby reducing one of the main advantages of the present invention. Various adhesives, staples or other connecting mechanisms can be utilized to attach the textured material 46 to elongated member 18. In an alternative configuration, hair engaging mechanism 44 can be integral to, such that it is manufactured with, elongated member 18.

As shown in FIG. 10 with regard to the previously described embodiment, the hair volumizing device 10 of the present invention can also include a hair extension component 56 that, as well known in the art, can be used to increase the thickness and/or length of the user's hair 12. In one configuration, hair extension component 56 comprises a plurality of hairs 58, generally much thicker than that shown, that are fixedly connected to elongated member 18. The plurality of hairs 58 can be glued or otherwise secured to elongated member 18 using materials that are well known and readily available in the art. In addition to providing the hair volumizing effect desired by many users, device 10 provides an improved hair engaging device for more securely placing a hair extension 56 in the user's hair 12 than the currently available devices for securing such hair extensions 56.

For use on the sides of the user's head, the hair volumizing device 10 will be generally shorter in length and have less curvature than those utilized for the top of the user's head. For instance, the length of device 10 for the side of the head can be one to two inches in length and can have only a slight curvilinear bottom side or be essentially planar. The side use devices 10 is otherwise configured essentially the same as described above, such as having the hair engaging mechanism 44 and, if desired, openings 34 and the taper at ends 26 and 28.

In use, hair volumizing device 10 of the present invention is placed in the section 16 of hair 12 where user 14 desires to have the bump effect. The user 14 directs hair volumizing device 10 into that portion of her hair 12 and moves the hair 12 around to engage the hair engaging mechanism(s) 44 to fix hair volumizing device 10 in the hair 12 and keep it hidden thereby. The user 14 then wears hair volumizing device 10 in her hair 12 for as long as she desires to have the bump effect and give the appearance of increased hair volume. In the preferred embodiment, hair volumizing device 10 is provided with a fixed curvilinear shape that at least generally conforms to the shape of the user's head. In the alternative embodiment, the user will bend hair volumizing device 10 into the desired curvilinear shape prior to inserting it into the section 16 of hair 12. When the bump effect is no longer desired, the user 14 simply removes it from her hair 12.

While there are shown and described herein a specific form of the invention, it will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art that the invention is not so limited, but is susceptible to various modifications and rearrangements in design and materials without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. In particular, it should be noted that the present invention is subject to modification with regard to any dimensional relationships set forth herein and modifications in assembly, materials, size, shape, and use. For instance, there are numerous components described herein that can be replaced with equivalent functioning components to accomplish the objectives of the present invention. 

1. A hair volumizing device for use in for adding volume to a section of hair of a user, said hair volumizing device comprising: an elongated member having a center section, a first end and a second end; and hair engaging means on one or more sides of said elongated member for engaging the section of hair of the user, wherein said hair volumizing device is sized and configured to be received in the section of hair of the user and worn by the user such that said hair volumizing device is substantially covered by the section of hair so as to appear to add volume thereto without said hair volumizing device being seen.
 2. The device according to claim 1, wherein said elongated member is arcuately shaped.
 3. The device according to claim 1, wherein said elongated member is flexible.
 4. The device according to claim 1, wherein said hair engaging means is on a top side of said elongated member.
 5. The device according to claim 1, wherein said hair engaging means is on a front side of said elongated member.
 6. The device according to claim 1 further comprising a hair extension component attached to said elongated member.
 7. The device according to claim 1, wherein said hair engaging means comprises one or more lengths of a textured material on said elongated member.
 8. The device according to claim 1 further comprising one or more openings in said center section of said elongated member.
 9. The device according to claim 8, wherein said openings pass through said elongated member.
 10. The device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of said first end and said second end is tapered toward an edge thereof.
 11. A hair volumizing device for use in for adding volume to a section of hair of a user, said hair volumizing device comprising: an elongated member having a center section, a first end, a second end and a curvilinear bottom side; and hair engaging means on one or more sides of said elongated member for engaging the section of hair of the user, said hair engaging means comprising one or more lengths of textured material attached to said elongated member, wherein said hair volumizing device is sized and configured to be received in the section of hair of the user and worn by the user such that said hair volumizing device is substantially covered by the section of hair so as to appear to add volume thereto without said hair volumizing device being seen.
 12. The device according to claim 11, wherein said elongated member is flexible.
 13. The device according to claim 11, wherein said hair engaging means is on a top side of said elongated member.
 14. The device according to claim 11, wherein said hair engaging means is on a front side of said elongated member.
 15. The device according to claim 11 further comprising a hair extension component attached to said elongated member.
 16. The device according to claim 11 further comprising one or more openings in said center section of said elongated member.
 17. The device according to claim 11, wherein at least one of said first end and said second end is tapered toward an edge thereof.
 18. A hair volumizing device for use in for adding volume to a section of hair of a user, said hair volumizing device comprising: an arcuately-shaped, flexible elongated member having a center section, a first end and a second end, said first end and said second end generally tapered toward an edge thereof; and hair engaging means on one or more sides of said elongated member for engaging the section of hair of the user, wherein said hair volumizing device is sized and configured to be received in the section of hair of the user and worn by the user such that said hair volumizing device is substantially covered by the section of hair so as to appear to add volume thereto without said hair volumizing device being seen.
 19. The device according to claim 18 further comprising a hair extension component attached to said elongated member.
 20. The device according to claim 18 further comprising one or more openings in said center section of said elongated member. 